Cockpit Attack Occurs on Flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv
The captain of a Flydubai flight, who was stabbed by the co-pilot, described his struggle to save the lives of more than 170 passengers.
During a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, the plane lost more than 17,000 feet in altitude after the co-pilot attacked the captain with a knife inside the cockpit.
Knife Attack in the Cockpit
On a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Indian captain Smit Machchhar was attacked with a knife by his co-pilot.
Effort to Save Passengers' Lives
Realizing that the plane was losing altitude while continuing to be attacked on the flight deck, the injured captain stated that he made a final effort to open the door from the inside to save the passengers.
Sudden Altitude Loss of the Aircraft
Flydubai flight FZ1073 experienced a drop of more than 17,000 feet during the second hour of the journey and sent an emergency signal.
Passenger Intervention and Safe Landing
While the attacker was subdued by passengers, two backup pilots on board safely landed the aircraft at Tabuk Airport in Saudi Arabia.
Investigation and Official Statements
While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the attacker was an Omani citizen, the UAE began investigating potential terrorist connections related to the incident.